Hi everyone!

[Mario]

I have registered in this forum because my father. He was operated 2 years ago and he suffer pain lately.

At present, he is going to rehabilitation and he is a little better.

Here in Spain, a doctor tell to my father that in USA, before of an operation, you must sign a form.

In this form you are warned that in 4-6 months you must operate again to remove the screws that fix the plate in your column. Is that true? The reason is for not fuse the screws to column or anythig like that. (I´m not sure about this)

Sorry about my english. Please, If anything is not clear let me know.

Best regards.

[trkdoc714]

Mario,

Welcome to the Forum. Your English is fine.

I don't think there is a standard for a second surgery to remove the screws. It would vary surgeon to surgeon. I believe most perform these procedures without any intention of a follow up to remove any hardware.

To be honest, the only hardware removal surgery I've read about is when the screws either fracture or back themselves out of the original placement.

I hope your father heals well. It can take several months for a fusion to properly heal. Make sure he takes it easy and follow the surgeon's instructions.

Bob

[Cindylou]

Mario, welcome, as well. My knowledge base is the same as Bob's regarding fusion. We do sign consent forms, but that's before any surgery, acknowledging we are of sound mind, know what type of surgery we are having, etc. Nothing to do with screw removal. You sound like a caring, involved son. Your Father must be proud, and I hope he gets his pain issues resolved timely, as well. CL

[Mario]

Thank you both.

Thanks for the information. I´ll tell to my father your answers.

Best regards.

[Justin]

Hi Mario,

Welcome to the Spine Patient Society.

In the United States, we have patients sign a few forms before a spine surgery. The most important form is what is called a "Consent Form" to do the surgery. This form just explains what the operation is that the patient is having done, that the risks and benefits of the procedure have been explained and that the patient agrees to the surgery. The patient then signs this form with a witness present.

The screws that are placed during a spinal fusion surgery usually stay in place. If the screws are causing ongoing pain, they can be removed in another operation. Once the bone graft (the material the surgeon places between the bones that are to be fused together) has grown or fused together, the screws can be removed as they are no longer needed for stability.

I do hope that you and your father are doing well in Spain.